Molden, Daniel C.; Lucas, Gale M.; Finkel, Eli J.; Kumashiro, Madoka and Rusbult, Caryl. 2009. Perceived support for promotion-focused and prevention-focused goals: associations with well-being in unmarried and married couples. Psychological Science, 20(7), pp. 787-793. ISSN 0956-7976 [Article]

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Abstract or Description

Perceived emotional support from close relationship partners in times of stress is a major predictor of well-being. However, recent research has suggested that, beyond emotional support, perceived support for achieving personal goals is also important for well-being. The present study extends such research by demonstrating that associations of perceived goal support with well-being differ depending on how people represent their goals and the general motivational context in which they pursue these goals. Among unmarried romantic partners, for whom the context of the relationship presumably is largely attainment oriented, perceived support for attainment-relevant (or promotion-focused) goals independently predicted relationship and personal well-being, whereas perceived support for maintenance-relevant (or prevention-focused) goals did not. In contrast, among married partners, for whom the context of the relationship presumably is both attainment and maintenance oriented, perceived support for both promotion-focused and prevention-focused goals independently predicted well-being. We discuss the implications for forecasting and improving well-being among married couples.

Item Type:	Article
Identification Number (DOI):	https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9280.2009.02362.x
Departments, Centres and Research Units:	Psychology Research Office > REF2014
Dates:	Date Event July 2009 Published
Item ID:	5362
Date Deposited:	25 Mar 2011 08:52
Last Modified:	06 Jan 2020 15:28
Peer Reviewed:	Yes, this version has been peer-reviewed.
URI:	https://research.gold.ac.uk/id/eprint/5362

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